Poorly designed and unresponsive keyboards are the second leading cause of gaming death, being beat out for the number one spot by siblings demanding to use the computer to chat with friends on Facebook. To ensure the best possible gaming experience, consider one of these mechanical gaming keyboards:

5) CM Storm Trigger Mechanical Keyboard

Coming with a variety of Cherry mechanical switch types depending on preference, the feel of this keyboard is one of the best. The blue switch keyboard is probably the most responsive and intuitive, and the backlighting of the keys is reasonably bright. The only real drawbacks too this keyboard are the price and the software requirements. The blue version is around $400 and forces gamers to run additional drivers to work as advertised.

4) Ducky Shine 3 DK9008

All Ducky keyboards are rock solid, and the Shine 3 is no exception. While this keyboard comes in a variety of Cherry switch choices, what really makes this keyboard stand out are the options. There are seven backlight modes, USB acceleration modes, and endless key customization. There really isn’t another keyboard out there quite like this one, and at around $150, it is a good value.

3) Func KB-460 Gaming Keyboard

The first gaming keyboard from Func is a clear winner, boasting Cherry red switches that give a feel similar to a membrane keyboard and bright backlighting. The drivers for this keyboard are filled with options, but it also works perfectly, albeit without macros, without the drivers. The coating of the keys is a perfectly grippy rubber texture that is ideal for gaming, and the overall build oozes quality. For around $120 this is a great option for gamers.

2) WASD V2 Mechanical Keyboard

For those interested in designing a keyboard to be specific to particular gaming needs, the V2 allows personalization not found in anywhere else. Select switch type, key layout, theme, and pretty much everything except for backlighting. Gamers who want a keyboard that nobody else has can get it for about $150.

1) Tesoro Colada G3NL Aluminum Backlit Gaming Keyboard

The folks at Tesoro have outdone themselves with this one. The aluminum chassis is beautiful and durable, the braided cables are top notch, and the USB port, headphone jack, and microphone jack help keep the playing area free from too many wires. For about $160, this keyboard is the best available.